From Windermere: Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of Lake District
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Reservations
History
The Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cumbria, England, has captivated visitors for centuries with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Known as the birthplace of Romantic poets like William Wordsworth, who lived in Grasmere, the region’s dramatic mountains, serene lakes, and charming villages have inspired literature, art, and conservation movements since the 18th century, shaping its identity as England’s most picturesque corner.
The area’s history stretches back to prehistoric times, with sites like Castlerigg Stone Circle, dating to around 3000 BCE, standing as a testament to ancient inhabitants. Over time, the Lake District became a hub for slate mining, particularly at Honister Pass, and a retreat for literary figures, leaving a legacy of natural beauty and cultural significance that draws millions today.
Highlights
- Visit the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle with stunning mountain views
- Enjoy lunch in the charming market town of Keswick
- See ten of the Lake District’s most beautiful lakes, including Ullswater and Buttermere
- Explore Grasmere village and sample its famous Grasmere Gingerbread
- Drive through scenic Kirkstone and Honister passes with photo opportunities
Full Description
Embark on an 8-hour guided tour from Windermere to discover the Lake District’s unparalleled beauty, exploring ten of its most iconic lakes and historic sites. Depart from the Windermere Tourist Information Centre aboard a small, air-conditioned mini-coach with an English-speaking guide providing live commentary. The journey begins with a scenic 25-minute drive into the heart of the Lake District, offering views of rolling hills and shimmering waters.
Your first major stop is Ullswater, one of the region’s largest lakes, where you’ll pause for 20 minutes to take photos and soak in the serene scenery. Continue to Keswick, a vibrant market town, for a 1-hour break to enjoy lunch at a pub or restaurant and explore its charming streets. Next, visit Castlerigg Stone Circle, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic site surrounded by dramatic peaks, for a 20-minute stop to capture photos and learn its history. The tour then takes you through the rugged beauty of Buttermere and the thrilling Honister Pass, with a 20-minute break to admire the slate mines and steep valleys.
The final stops include Grasmere, a picturesque village where you’ll have 30 minutes to explore and try the famous Grasmere Gingerbread, and a 15-minute photo stop at Rydal Water, a tranquil lake linked to Wordsworth. With scenic drives over Kirkstone Pass and multiple opportunities for photography, this eco-friendly tour immerses you in the Lake District’s natural splendor and cultural heritage, returning you to Windermere by late afternoon.
Why Choose This Experience?
This full-day tour is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and first-time visitors seeking to experience the Lake District’s diverse landscapes in a single day. The small mini-coach ensures a personal, comfortable journey, while the expert guide’s commentary brings the region’s history, geology, and literary connections to life, making every stop meaningful and engaging.
With carefully planned stops at iconic lakes, ancient sites, and charming villages, plus scenic drives over dramatic passes, the tour offers a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation. The inclusion of lunch in Keswick and a taste of Grasmere Gingerbread adds a delightful local flavor, making this an unforgettable way to discover England’s most beautiful region.
What’s Included
- Transport in a small, air-conditioned mini-coach
- On-board commentary in English by a live guide
Itinerary
- Depart from Windermere Tourist Information Centre
- 25-minute scenic drive into the Lake District
- 20-minute photo stop and break at Ullswater
- 1-hour lunch and exploration break in Keswick
- 20-minute visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle
- 30-minute photo stop and sightseeing at Buttermere
- 20-minute break at Honister Pass
- 30-minute visit to Grasmere, with time to try Grasmere Gingerbread
- 15-minute photo stop at Rydal Water
- 45-minute return drive to Windermere Tourist Information Centre
Pricing
From $75 per person
Meeting Point
Meet outside the Windermere Tourist Information Centre. What3Words: ///treatment.overlaid.hides
How to Get There
- By Foot: The meeting point is a 2-minute walk from Windermere Railway Station or central Windermere hotels.
- By Bus: Stagecoach buses (e.g., 599 open-top bus) connect Windermere to nearby towns like Ambleside; disembark at Windermere Station, a short walk away.
- By Train: Windermere Railway Station, served by Northern Rail, is adjacent to the Tourist Information Centre.
- By Car: Park at nearby pay-and-display car parks (e.g., Broad Street Car Park, LA23 2AB), a 5-minute walk from the meeting point.
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes for light walking at stops
- Weather-appropriate clothing (Lake District weather can change quickly)
- Cash for lunch in Keswick and Grasmere Gingerbread purchase
- Camera or phone for capturing scenic views
Know Before You Go
- Children must be 5 years or older to join the tour.
- A designated lunch stop in Keswick allows time to purchase food at pubs or restaurants.
- Toilet stops are available en route for convenience.
- Minimal walking is involved, suitable for most fitness levels, but terrain may be uneven at Castlerigg Stone Circle.
- Vehicles are not currently wheelchair accessible; contact the operator for specific needs.
- Luggage or large bags are not permitted to ensure space and comfort on the mini-coach.
Reviews
- Fantastic tour! Our guide’s commentary was insightful, and the lakes were stunning!
- Loved it! Andy’s knowledge and humor made the Lake District come alive!
- Great day out! Mark was a superb guide, and Grasmere was a highlight!
Maps
Video
FAQ's
What is the duration and structure of the Ten Lakes Full-Day Tour of the Lake District?
This 8-hour tour departs from Windermere Tourist Information Centre, covering ten iconic lakes and key sites via a small mini-coach with English commentary. The itinerary includes a 20-minute stop at Ullswater, a 1-hour lunch break in Keswick, visits to Castlerigg Stone Circle and Buttermere, a 20-minute break at Honister Pass, a 30-minute stop in Grasmere for gingerbread, and a 15-minute photo stop at Rydal Water. Scenic drives over Kirkstone and Honister passes offer breathtaking views, with minimal walking involved. Check start times when booking to align with your plans, ensuring a full day of exploration with ample photo opportunities.
Is the tour suitable for families with young children?
The tour is suitable for families with children aged 5 and older, as those under 5 are not permitted due to the 8-hour duration and safety considerations on the mini-coach. The itinerary offers light walking and engaging stops like Keswick and Grasmere, which appeal to kids and adults, with commentary that includes fun facts about the region’s history and nature. Parents should bring snacks, as lunch in Keswick is the main meal stop, and ensure kids are dressed for variable weather. It’s a great way to introduce families to the Lake District’s beauty, with manageable activity levels for older children.
Can I cancel or modify my booking if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing travel plans, which is ideal for visitors with unpredictable schedules. The “reserve now, pay later” option allows you to secure your spot without immediate payment, perfect for planning ahead. Modifications, such as changing tour dates, depend on availability—contact the tour operator via your booking confirmation for assistance. Always check specific cancellation terms when booking to ensure compliance, especially during peak seasons when spots fill quickly. This policy ensures stress-free planning for solo travelers, couples, or families.
Are there opportunities to purchase food or souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a 1-hour lunch break in Keswick, where you can buy food at traditional pubs, cafes, or restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets—bring cash, as some smaller venues may not accept cards. In Grasmere, a 30-minute stop allows you to purchase the famous Grasmere Gingerbread, a perfect souvenir or treat, with shops also offering local crafts. Other stops, like Ullswater and Buttermere, focus on scenery, but vending options may be limited, so plan accordingly. These breaks add a delightful local flavor to your Lake District experience.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves minimal walking, suitable for most fitness levels, but some stops, like Castlerigg Stone Circle, feature uneven terrain that may challenge those with mobility issues. The mini-coach is not currently wheelchair accessible, so individuals with mobility needs should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss specific requirements and assess suitability. Collapsible walking aids may be accommodated with prior notice, but the lack of wheelchair access and natural terrain at some stops require careful consideration. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential for all participants to enjoy the scenic stops comfortably.
